Drug Interaction Report

GENERALLY AVOID: Concomitant use of cocaine with sympathomimetic agents such as epinephrine and phenylephrine may lead to additive cardiovascular effects. The proposed mechanism involves increased circulating catecholamines and increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Locally administered cocaine and epinephrine have been used in combination during septal surgery; however, concerns regarding cardiovascular side effects have been raised. Myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, and ventricular arrhythmias have been reported following coadministration of topical intranasal cocaine with epinephrine and phenylephrine during nasal and sinus surgery. Cases documenting the development of arrhythmias after the nasal application of cocaine and epinephrine 25%-0.18% topical paste have also been reported in 2 children and one adult receiving general anesthesia. However, the dosage of cocaine administered in these cases was above the maximum recommended dose in fit adults (1.5 mg/kg).

MANAGEMENT: Concomitant use of cocaine with sympathomimetic agents should be avoided. If coadministration is required, prolonged vital sign and ECG monitoring may be necessary.

The effect of grapefruit juice on the pharmacologic activity of caffeine is controversial. One report suggests that grapefruit juice increases the effect of caffeine. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of cytochrome P-450 metabolism of caffeine. However, a well-conducted pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic study did not demonstrate this effect. The clinical significance of this potential interaction is unknown.